Nampa, Idaho – Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York is pushing for a ban on lawmakers trading individual stocks after it was revealed that Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia purchased shares in various companies just before President Donald Trump announced a pause on tariffs. The disclosure filing showed that Greene bought between $21,000 to $315,000 in stocks on April 8 and 9, the day before and the day of Trump’s tariff pause announcement, leading to a surge in the market.
Ocasio-Cortez, speaking at a rally in Idaho alongside Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, criticized lawmakers for using insider information to make profitable trades. She called out Greene specifically, questioning how much she made off people’s despair, panic, and suffering. The congresswoman emphasized that it is wrong for members of Congress to hold and trade individual stocks, labeling it as corrosive and destructive, and calling for a complete ban on the practice.
During the rally, Ocasio-Cortez also took aim at Trump, labeling him as a criminal guilty of fraud and liable for sexual abuse. She accused Trump of manipulating the stock market for the benefit of his friends, highlighting the unethical nature of such actions. Ocasio-Cortez stressed the importance of both Democrats and Republicans coming together to oppose the practice of lawmakers trading stocks based on privileged information.
The congresswoman’s remarks at the rally underscored the need for transparency and ethical behavior in the financial dealings of lawmakers. The issue of insider trading among members of Congress has long been a point of contention, with calls for stricter regulations and accountability. Ocasio-Cortez’s passionate stance on the matter resonated with the audience, drawing attention to the need for reforms to prevent exploitation of sensitive information for personal gain.
In light of the recent revelations surrounding Greene’s stock purchases, Ocasio-Cortez’s advocacy for a ban on lawmakers trading individual stocks has gained renewed momentum. The congresswoman’s vocal condemnation of unethical behavior within Congress reflects a broader push for integrity and accountability in the political sphere. As the debate over insider trading and conflicts of interest continues, Ocasio-Cortez’s stance serves as a clarion call for upholding ethical standards and ensuring fair and transparent governance.